Historically, educational institutions have largely relied on in-house development of administrative software. However, the costs of skilled programmers and rapidly advancing technology are making in-house development too expensive. These and other factors are addressed and changes needed for future educational administrative computing support are…

Explains the function of computer programing languages, noting the difference between high and low level languages, and describes the concept of authoring systems which enable nonprogramers to develop computer-assisted instructional materials. Eight programing languages and their educational applications are listed. (EAO)

Provides answers to nine myths about computers, including computers are invaluable for school and home use; programing experience means job security; teachers will develop their own software; computers make good teachers; computer experts will form an elite social class; and computers increase student achievement. (JN)

Discusses topics and issues related to (1) international impact of microcomputers; (2) minimum guidelines for software development; (3) achieving minimum standards; and (4) accomplishments in the areas of introductory chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, and physical chemistry. Challenges for the future are noted. (JN)

Discusses a computer-assisted instruction authoring aid called PROFORMA which converts ordinary text into output on a computer screen in a format which contains, as desired, framed tables, reverse video, boldface print, moving text, and question-and-answer sequences. Use of PROFORMA in the teaching of French is discussed. (Author/JJD)

Provides a checklist of stylistic elements to consider when writing simulation programs for use in computer assisted instruction. Subtopics include setting simulation parameters, questioning the user, displaying the results, and overall simulation organization. (JJD)

Discussion of several applications of microcomputer programing in developing economics tutorials on videocassettes includes hardware requirements and videocassette preparation. A sample oligopoly program is included. Additional potential applications noted include using the microcomputer as an electronic blackboard and audio synchronized…

Suggests a model of human cognition by describing similarities between human and electronic computers. This model might guide the development of software so that it is sufficiently powerful and flexible to be of value to human computers as they construct new knowledge in chemistry. (JN)

Describes use of authoring systems--software packages which guide authors through the programming process, eliminating the need to know how to program--as a practical solution to the problem of teachers developing their own microcomputer courseware. Some representative authoring systems, their benefits and costs, and specific products are…

This theme issue provides brief descriptions or reviews of specific authoring tools including the Digital, TenCORE, EASE, Courseware (Apple), and PLATO authoring systems. Articles on conceptual or practical issues emerging from extensive experience in specific settings or based on use of specific authoring systems are also presented. (MBR)

Following a brief description of the microcomputing program at Drexel University, which requires all freshman to have access to a personal computer and offers Macintosh microcomputers and software at a low cost to entering freshman, this paper summarizes the written sources of information on the program. Four examples of how currently available…

Describes a two-semester computer science course, outlining course objectives and discussing classroom management techniques, software used, and courseware developed. Also includes table of contents for student manuals, and comments indicating that the course is meeting its objectives. (JN)

As part of its ongoing effort to develop Army embedded training (ET) systems in which a tactical computer system is used to train personnel about its own utilization, a project was conducted to develop and evaluate courseware on how to program lessons for computer assisted instruction (CAI). Since PLANIT (Programing Language for Interactive…

Weaknesses in educational software currently available in the domain of mathematics are discussed. A technique that was used for the design and production of mathematics software aimed at improving problem-solving skills which combines sound pedagogy and innovative programming is presented. To illustrate the design portion of this technique, a…

One of the objectives of the Nebraska Interactive Cable Project, an investigation of the educational potential of interactive cable, was to develop a design and production process for interactive cable/videotex instruction. The first part of the project involved the adaptation of three existing correspondence courses on marriage and the family,…